We know January is all about the “new year, new me,” but we think February is as good a time to strive for your best self. Whether that is improving your skincare routine, making a goal to shop sustainably, or losing weight and gaining muscle, Dermaclara is in your corner. Below we get into the weeds about stretch marks and weight loss and how to approach both responsibly. Hint: slow and steady weight loss is your friend, and Dermaclara is your best friend.

There are many things you may notice when monitoring weight gain, before and after. Unfortunately, one of those things may be stretch marks. One of the most common side effects of gaining or losing weight is stretch marks. But never fear! Below we break down how to care for stretch marks before and after.

Before Weight Loss

Besides preexisting stretch marks from past weight gain, excess skin from weight loss can lead to stretch marks. So, when you plan out your weight loss goals, do so responsibly. Prioritize slow and steady weight loss, eat healthily, exercise regularly, and hydrate often.

After Weight Loss

Maybe you have already lost the weight and didn’t see our suggestions in time. That’s okay (and congratulations)! There are topical creams, oils, and prescription medications that help with stretch marks. Although, you may find that these products are neither effective enough nor permanent. The most effective stretch mark treatments must boost collagen and elastin production and increase moisture. Instead of wasting your money on expensive and invasive procedures; we suggest Dermaclara for guaranteed results. Scroll all the way to the bottom for more information.

Does Weight Loss Cause Stretch Marks?

Can you get stretch marks from losing weight? The answer is yes. Although it is more common to develop stretch marks from gaining weight than losing weight, stretch marks from losing weight are possible.

Whether you or gaining or losing weight, the skin needs to adapt. When the skin stretches rapidly, it tears, damaging elastin, collagen, and connective tissues. The damage appears as stretch marks. Even though our skin is durable and flexible, it results in tears, otherwise known as stretch marks, when it expands quickly. When you lose weight, the stretch marks that developed from gaining weight are uncovered. Technically, these stretch marks are old and developed from gaining weight. But the excess skin from weight loss can cause new stretch marks.

Do Stretch Marks Become More Visible When You Lose Weight?

Stretch marks from losing weight appear in the region you lost weight or fat. Typical areas you may find weight loss stretch marks include the arms, shoulders, torso, butt, and thighs. Excess skin from weight loss can cause stretch marks, but often times the stretch marks that appear are from previous weight gain. Sometimes, stretch marks are not easily visible during weight gain and only become apparent after weight loss.

Weight Loss Stretch Marks vs Weight Gain Stretch Marks

There is no significant difference between weight loss and weight gain stretch marks. In general stretch marks look like lines or streaks stretched across the skin. They vary in color and can be very bright and colorful or light and hidden. Fresh stretch marks, known as striae rubrae, appear red, purple, pink, or brown. The color will depend on your skin tone. New stretch marks often feel slightly raised and itchy because the skin is thin and healing. Older, more established stretch marks, known as striae albae, are faded and silvery. When running your hand over them, you will feel a slight depression as if they have sunken into the skin.

Different Types of Stretch Marks

Below are the common types of stretch marks.

1. Striae atrophicans: Thinned skin, may develop in those with Cushing’s syndrome.
2. Striae gravidarum: Occur due to pregnancy
3. Striae distensae: Stretched skin
4. Striae rubrae: Appear red
5. Striae albae: Appear white
6. Striae nigrae: Appear black or dark grey
7. Striae caerulea: Appear dark blue or purple

How Can I Treat Stretch Marks Before Weight Loss?

Below we break down some simple tips to help prevent stretch marks after losing weight.

Monitor Your Weight

Safely monitoring your weight helps you stay aware of your body and any developing stretch marks. Both rapid weight gain and loss can lead to stretch marks. By watching your weight, you notice rapid gain or loss and are better positioned to take control and understand what might be happening.

Stay Hydrate

Staying hydrated keeps the skin hydrated! Healthy, hydrated skin is stretchy, soft, flexible, and more capable of accommodating change. The recommended intake of water for women is 72 ounces. So, drink up! And remember, if you drink caffeinated beverages, balance them out with hydrating beverages. Caffeine increases the risk of developing stretch marks.

Safe Sun Exposure

Research suggests that healthy levels of Vitamin D, through sun exposure, help reduce the risk of stretch marks. So, apply sunscreen and soak up some Vitamin D.

Nutritious Diet

Prioritize skin-health-boosting foods packed with vitamins C, D, E, and Zinc. Opt for unprocessed foods and eat colorful foods (fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, eggs, etc.).

How Can I Treat Stretch Marks After Weight Loss?

Dermaclara is the best treatment for stretch marks before and after weight loss. There are no needles, chemical peels, incisions, or lasers. Dermaclara utilizes silicone fusion technology to change the actual makeup of your skin.

When applied, the silicone patch creates a microclimate between the seal and the skin, stimulating collagen production and boosting moisture. Collagen promotes skin regeneration, which heals and reduces the appearance of stretch marks. Unlike topical oils and creams, Dermaclara penetrates the dermis, pulling nutrients from the inside up to the skin's surface. This process promotes healing and growth and results in plump, buoyant skin.

Dermaclara is cost-efficient, non-invasive, chemical-free, and dermatologist-approved. The silicon patches are reusable up to 30 times and customizable to where you need to see change.

Follow the instructions below to start seeing results.

Step 1: Prep the Area
Begin by cleaning the area with a cleanser. We recommend Claraprep because it is soft and gentle but clears dirt, sweat, and makeup effectively.

Step 2: Apply Dermaclara Silicone Patches
Apply the forehead, eye, mouth, neck, or chest silicone patches. Our patches are versatile, so feel free to place them anywhere you need a boost. Leave them on for at least 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3: Carefully Remove & Store Dermaclara Silicone Patches
Gently remove the patches and clean them with Patch Prep. This formula is engineered and designed to re-activate adhesive properties in-between treatments so you get the most out of your patches. Dermaclara patches can be reused 15 - 30 times. Let them dry before reapplying them to the backing card.

Ways To Avoid Stretch Marks Before and After Weight Loss

That’s it! You are set to go. All the tools are here for you to avoid pesky stretch marks before or after weight loss. Whether you are preparing to or have already lost the weight, bookmark this article and use it as your guide to getting the body you deserve because “new year, new me” doesn’t happen in one month if you want it to be stretch mark free!